C.H. Brainard
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C.H. BRAINARD, who carries on farming on section 1, township 10, range 5 west,
of Henderson County, claims Connecticut as the State of his nativity, his birth having there occurred on the 1st of
May, 1832. His father, Asa Brainard, was born and reared in Connecticut, and after attaining to man's estate
married Almira Lynn. They became the parents of several children, and our subject is the only one now living. In
1834, they emigrated westward with their family, and on reaching Henderson Count, Ill., made a location. They were
among its earliest pioneers, and in true pioneer style they began life in the West. Their home was located on the
farm where our subject now resides, and there the father carried on agricultural pursuits until his death, which
occurred about 1840. C. H. Brainard was only eight years of age at that time, and was only two years old when he
became a resident of this community. With the family he shared in all the trials and hardships of pioneer life, and
with the history of this locality he has been familiar since an early day. When quite young he began work in the
fields, and aided in farm labor until 1850, when he made a trip to California. The journey was made across the
plains with ox-teams, and on reaching his destination he engaged in mining. The return trip was made in 1852, at
which time he rode a mule across the country from Sacramento to his home in Illinois. He then remained in Henderson
County until 1857, when he again went to the West for his health, spending ten years on the Pacific Slope. He met
with good success in his mining operations in California, and saved considerable money, so that on his return he
was enabled to purchase a good farm. In April, 1875, Mr. Brainard was united in marriage with Miss Minerva
Applebey, who spent her maidenhood days in this locality. Her mother is now living in Gladstone. Three children
graced their union, Almira E., Ariel C. and William H. >Mr. Brainard has followed farming throughout his entire
life with the exception of the years spent in California. Thoroughly understanding his business in all its details,
it has proved to him a profitable enterprise, and his industry, perseverance and good management have secured for
him a comfortable home. From 1877 until 1881, he served as School Director, and the cause of education has ever
found in him a warm friend. Few men have longer resided in Henderson County than Mr. Brainard, whose residence here
practically covers a period of sixty years. He has therefore witnessed almost its entire growth and development,
and in the work of advancement and progress he has ever borne his part. All worthy enterprises receive his hearty
support, and the best interests of the community find in him a friend.
From the Portrait and biographical record of Hancock, McDonough and Henderson counties, Illinois : containing biographical sketches of prominent and representative citizens of the county (1894) |
For corrections or additions, please contact: State Coordinator